The Soul of Borobudur: Unveiling the History of Kedai Bukit Rhema
Borobudur is a name that echoes through history, usually summoning images of the majestic 9th-century Buddhist temple, carved stone reliefs, and the serene morning mist of Magelang. But if you venture slightly further into the embrace of the Menoreh Hills, you will find that Borobudur’s story isn’t just written in stone; it is also written in the flavors and the smiles of the local people. If you are searching for a Resto in Borobudur Magelang that offers breathtaking views and an authentic, heartwarming experience, Kedai Bukit Rhema is your ultimate destination. Today, we are taking a deep dive behind the scenes to explore the history, the passion, and the people who made this viral spot a reality.
More Than Just a Restaurant: A Vision of Harmony
Perched on a cool, breezy ridge, Kedai Bukit Rhema is far from your average roadside eatery. It is a living testament to the harmony between nature, humanity, and culinary heritage. To understand why this place is so special, we have to look back at the catalyst that changed Magelang’s tourism landscape forever: the release of the cult-classic film Ada Apa Dengan Cinta 2 (AADC 2).
The Bridge Between Tourism and Community
When AADC 2 hit the screens, it turned the spotlight on Bukit Rhema—famously known as the “Chicken Church” (Gereja Ayam). Suddenly, a flood of tourists descended upon the quiet hills. While the influx of visitors was a boon for the site itself, there was an underlying tension. Despite the crowds, the economic impact wasn’t trickling down to the local villagers as effectively as it could have. The locals were witnesses to the tourism boom, but they weren’t yet participants in it.
This is where the story of Kedai Bukit Rhema truly begins. It wasn’t born out of a desire for profit alone, but from a sincere intention to serve as a bridge. The founders wanted to ensure that the beauty of the Menoreh Hills could directly improve the livelihoods of the people who call them home.
The Visionaries: Daniel Alamsyah and Denmas Setia Wenas
The establishment of the Kedai was initiated by Daniel Alamsyah, the visionary behind the Bukit Rhema building itself, alongside his son, Denmas Setia Wenas. Together, they envisioned a concept rooted in community empowerment. They didn’t want to just sell food; they wanted to create an ecosystem where local farmers, creative culinary minds, and tourists could thrive together.
Every plate served at Kedai Bukit Rhema is a vote of support for the local economy. By integrating local produce into their menu, the Kedai ensures that when the tourism industry grows, the farmers grow with it. This model of Community-Based Tourism (CBT) is essential in modern travel, where visitors increasingly seek ethical and sustainable ways to experience a destination.
A Journey of Growth: From 3 Families to a Flourishing Community
Kedai Bukit Rhema officially celebrated its Grand Opening in April 2017. In its early days, the venture received significant support from the Sinar Bukit Rhema Foundation. One of their first major milestones was a collaboration with Nutrisari W’dank, which helped create a range of traditional, soul-warming beverages that became a staple for visitors between 2017 and 2019.
However, Denmas Setia Wenas knew that for the Kedai to reach its full potential, it needed a professional management approach infused with academic insight. He returned to his alma mater, Sanata Dharma University, specifically the Faculty of Economics, Management Department. By inviting students to conduct their Kuliah Kerja Profesi (KKP) or Professional Work Internship at the Kedai, they were able to implement modern management systems while keeping the community at the core.
The results were transformative. What started as an initiative involving only three people has blossomed into a movement involving 16 local families. Furthermore, the local Ibu PKK (the village women’s association) and local farming groups have become more productive and entrepreneurial, turning the Kedai into a true community hub.
The Iconic Location: Dining Above the Clouds
So, where exactly can you find this hidden gem? If you are visiting the Bukit Rhema “Chicken Church,” the Kedai is situated directly at the back of the main structure. It sits atop the hills of Karangrejo Village in the Borobudur District of Magelang Regency. This prime location makes it one of the most scenic Restos in Borobudur Magelang. As you dine, you are treated to a panoramic view of lush green valleys and the undulating silhouettes of the hills, often draped in a mystical morning fog.
Culinary Highlights: Simplicity Perfected
What makes the food here so special? The secret lies in simplicity elevated by love and high-quality local ingredients. Let’s look at the dishes that have made this place a culinary landmark:
- Singkong Keju (Latela): This is the undisputed star of the snack menu. The cassava (singkong) is sourced directly from local farmers. It is processed until it is incredibly soft and “blooming,” then fried to perfection and topped with a generous mound of grated cheese. This humble root vegetable is “promoted to the next level” through the skill of the Kedai’s chefs.
- Ayam Bakar Nusantara: For those seeking a hearty meal, this grilled chicken dish is the “primadona.” It has been tasted and highly recommended by the legendary food vlogger Ria SW. The spices are marinated deep into the meat, and when paired with their signature sambal, it creates a flavor profile that is unforgettable.
National Recognition and Innovation
The quality of the food and the strength of the social mission did not go unnoticed. In 2020/2021, Kedai Bukit Rhema successfully broke into the prestigious Food Startup Indonesia competition organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf). This recognition solidified their status as a leader in the intersection of gastronomy and social impact.
A Holistic Experience: Beyond the Plate
As the years have passed, Kedai Bukit Rhema has evolved into much more than a place to eat. It is now a destination for families, professionals, and seekers of culture. New facilities include:
- Inspiring Meeting Spaces: For teams looking to escape the drab office environment, the Kedai offers meeting rooms with natural vistas that spark creativity and fresh ideas.
- Kids’ Playground: A safe and fun area for children to play while parents enjoy their coffee and the view.
- Creative Experience: Visitors can now engage in educational activities like batik making or decorating donuts. It turns a simple meal into a memorable, hands-on learning experience.
The Importance of Supporting Local in Tourism
In a world of global chains and industrialized food, places like Kedai Bukit Rhema remind us of the value of “Slow Food” and localized economies. According to recent tourism statistics, over 60% of modern travelers prefer spending their money at establishments that clearly benefit the local community. By visiting this Kedai, you aren’t just a customer; you are a patron of Javanese heritage and local prosperity.
Conclusion: Make Memories at Kedai Bukit Rhema
Kedai Bukit Rhema is proof that a restaurant can have a soul. It is a place where every bite tells a story of a farmer’s hard work, a father and son’s vision, and a community’s resilience. If you are planning a trip to Central Java, make sure to add this spot to your itinerary. Whether you are there for the viral Singkong Keju, the Ayam Bakar reviewed by Ria SW, or simply to soak in the view of the Menoreh Hills, you will leave with a full stomach and a warm heart.
Enjoy the food, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and become a part of their beautiful story. See you at Bukit Rhema!
